More recent research has shown that lullabies can have beneficial effects on physiological functioning and development in premature infants. Infants have a natural tendency to entrain to the sounds that surround them. Beat perception begins during fetal development in the womb and infants are born with an innate musical preference. The element of lullaby sounds can regulate infant heart rate, quiet-alert states, and sleep. Lullabies can also enhance parent-child bonding, thus decreasing parental stress associated with the intensive care. In short, lullabies induce relaxation, rest, comfort, and optimal growth and development.

► Lullabies in classical music:

Lullabies written by established classical composers are often given the form-name berceuse, which is French for lullaby, or cradle song. The most famous lullaby is the one by Johannes Brahms (“Wiegenlied”, 1868, ► https://youtu.be/fvHp8B0VOBA ). While there has been no confirmation, there are many strong arguments that Brahms suffered from a sleep disorder known as sleep apnea. It is speculated (based on lullabies’ utility as a sleep aid) that this was part of his inspiration for composing “Wiegenlied.” Chopin’s Opus 57 is a berceuse for solo piano ( ► https://youtu.be/6Fqj1Fm67VY ).